Looking for some info from those who have had their collections appraised. I believe my collection is getting large enough and need to get a rider for my home owners policy. Has anyone had their collection appraised? My collection spans 4 6' tall 5 shelf bookcases. So taking them to an appraiser is out o the question. Any help would be greatly appreciated.

Just think of a number, any number. For insurance purposes, they will insure you for anything you say. But, when it comes to a claim, they will only pay what they say is "market value" at the time of loss.

Although I haven't looked into it in years, back in the day, the recommended specialty insurance company to use washttp://collectinsure.com

My understanding is that you have a much better chance of getting replacement value for your books using a specialty company that accepts your appraised value, vs a generic insurance company. That being said I don't know of anyone personally who's had to file a loss claim with these guys so maybe someone else can speak to that.

At any rate, going back to appraisal, if David has time he'd probably be a good option for Appraisal, especially if your collection contains more than just books. I've been asked to submit an appraisal or two in my day, although I expect it's up to each insurance company on whether they want to accept it or not I don't have any special ties with insurance companies.